Hey everyone! I've been tasked with my first big project, which involves setting up Entra ID and Intune for central authentication and mobile device management. Since we're currently using Google services, I'm looking to start with a pilot program and would love some advice on licensing options. Should I purchase directly from Microsoft, or are there third-party providers in the US that offer competitive custom bundled pricing? We're aiming to get Entra and Intune for this pilot, with plans to include Defender for Endpoint later. Any recommendations for good cloud solution providers (CSPs) to contact for quotes? Also, I'm curious about the differences in costs and support between buying directly from Microsoft versus using a reseller. Since this is a fresh start for us, any insights on best practices for running pilot programs would also be greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance!
2 Answers
I think going through a CSP is a great move for pilots. They often provide better pricing and support compared to going through Microsoft directly. We work with a CSP called On Top Of It and they've been fantastic, giving us the option to control how much access we share with them.
You can definitely go directly through Microsoft for your pilot. They usually offer trials and solid support, especially if you're just starting with Entra and Intune. But once you figure out how many devices you need to manage, it could be worth checking with local CSPs for better long-term pricing.
Could you share some details about your CSP, like a point of contact? I’d love to reach out and discuss options. Thanks!